Sis needs to help herself

Saturday

Jul 20, 2013 at 6:00 AMJul 29, 2013 at 1:30 PM

DEAR ANNIE: My 32-year-old sister, "Ashley," got herself into trouble. From my earliest memories, she has always lied. She recently got out of drug rehab, but it doesn't seem to have helped. My parents and Ashley's biological mom consistently bail her out of trouble, whereas my other siblings and I have to learn from our mistakes.

Ashley is still my sister, and I love her. How do I help her without getting angry about the poor decisions she continues to make? — ASHLEY'S SIS

DEAR SIS: You cannot help Ashley until she is willing to help herself, and that may never happen. We understand your anger and frustration, but you'll feel better if you can simply accept that this is who she is. Please concentrate your efforts on those children. They need stability and solid role models in their lives, and you can provide both. Can you take them to the park after school? Help with homework? Cook them a meal or take them out on the weekends? Whatever hours you can give them will be time well spent.

DEAR ANNIE: There is a girl in our group of friends who is really starting to annoy me. She constantly has her phone in her hand. She also won't do certain things because she's worried people will "judge" her. She doesn't play any sports and isn't in any club, because they're "lame." Also, she always needs one friend by her side so she won't be alone.

She may be insecure, but it's really starting to make me resentful. What should I do? — CALIFORNIA

DEAR CALIFORNIA: These high-maintenance friends don't realize how exhausting they are to be around. If you think you can gently tell her that her insecurities are getting the best of her, go ahead. But it's a delicate balance. If you think she will turn on you, it might be best to ignore what you can and spend as little time in her company as possible.

DEAR ANNIE: This is in response to "Wanting No Regrets," who wants to divorce his wife and go back to his ex-fiancee.

You were correct when you told him to try working through his problems with his wife. Even if things don't work out, he should hold off getting too involved with his ex. He may realize that he was lucky to have gotten out of their engagement the first time. My ex will always have a special place in my heart, but not enough to live with him. — BEEN THERE, DONE THAT